What Counts as a Dental Emergency? (And What to Do)
Knocked-out teeth, swelling and severe pain need care fast. Here is what counts as a dental emergency and what to do until you are seen.
For most people, a root canal feels similar to having a filling. The tooth is numbed with local anesthetic before treatment starts, so you should feel pressure rather than pain. Many patients find the procedure relieves the pain they had before, which usually came from the infection, not the treatment.
Inside each tooth is soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, from deep decay, a crack, or repeated dental work, it can cause pain and swelling and may lead to an abscess. A root canal removes the damaged pulp so the tooth can be saved instead of pulled.
Sometimes there are no symptoms at all, and the problem is found on an X-ray during a regular exam.
It is normal for the tooth to feel tender for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief usually manages this well. Avoid chewing hard foods on that side until the tooth has its final filling or crown. Call your dentist if pain or swelling gets worse instead of better.
Teeth that need a root canal have often lost a lot of structure, and back teeth take heavy chewing forces. A crown covers and protects the tooth so it is less likely to crack.
Removing a tooth may seem simpler, but a missing tooth can let nearby teeth shift and may need an implant or bridge later. When a tooth can be saved, a root canal is usually the better long-term choice. Your dentist will explain the options for your situation.
Shore Side Dentistry provides root canal therapy in downtown Oakville. If you are anxious about treatment, ask us about sedation options.
If you have tooth pain that will not go away, book an exam. Call us at 905-842-2364 or request an appointment online. Our office is at 345 Lakeshore Rd E #401 in downtown Oakville.
Please note: This article is general information to help you understand common dental topics. It is not a diagnosis or a substitute for an exam. Every mouth is different, so please book a visit or call 905-842-2364 so one of our dentists can look at your situation and talk through your options.
Treatment that removes infection from inside a tooth so you can keep it.
Options to help nervous patients feel more relaxed during treatment.
Same-day help for toothaches, broken teeth and other urgent problems when we can fit you in.
Shore Side Dentistry has cared for Oakville families since 1990. Our four dentists, including a certified specialist in periodontics, work together in one office on Lakeshore Road East.
Our office at 345 Lakeshore Rd E #401 in downtown Oakville welcomes patients from across Halton: Central Oakville · Bronte Village · Burlington · Milton. See all service areas.
Knocked-out teeth, swelling and severe pain need care fast. Here is what counts as a dental emergency and what to do until you are seen.
Bleeding, swollen gums and persistent bad breath can be early signs of gum disease. Here is what to watch for and when to see a dentist.